Brown Lentil

Brown Lentils are a garden favorite, celebrated for their ease of growth and versatility in the kitchen. These small, earthy legumes have a mild, nutty flavor and a soft texture that makes them perfect for a variety of dishes, from hearty stews to vibrant salads. Lentils can be eaten soaked, germinated, fried, baked or boiled. Lentils are popular in cuisines of India, where split lentils known as daal are cooked in a thick curry that is usually eaten with rice or rotis. The versatility of these lentils extends beyond just cooking; they can be used as a base for spreads, dips, and veggie patties. They provide a hearty, filling base for vegetarian meals and complement meats in traditional dishes, adding a healthy boost of flavor and texture. Also popular in Greek and Mediterranean diets. The seeds grow in pods, usually with two seeds in each. Their compact plants are resilient and thrive in a range of soil types, producing rich, dark brown seeds that are packed with nutrients like protein, fiber, and iron.

Also Known As: Regular Brown Lentils, Morton Brown Lentils, French Brown Lentils, Small Brown Lentils, Earthy Brown Lentils, Puy Brown Lentils, Indian Brown Lentils, Whole Brown Lentils.

Plant Name:	Lentil, Morton Winter Brown
Latin Name:	Lens culinaris
Days to Germinate:	10-21
Days to Harvest:	105
Plant Height:	1 - 2 Feet
Spread:	6 - 12 Inches
Growth Habit:	Bush
USDA Zones:	4-11
Lifespan:	Annual
Brand:	TomorrowSeeds
Sunlight:	Full Sun, Partial Shade
Pollination:	Heirloom, Open-Pollinated
GMO:	No
Fungicide-Treated Seeds*:	No
Seeds Packed For**:	2025

*Fungicide-treated seeds protect the seedlings from diseases until they are up and growing. Do not eat treated seeds.
**Seeds are freshly packed for the growing season of the year listed. Seeds are still viable beyond pack date. Store in a cool and dry location such as the refrigerator or basement to best preserve germination rates.

Planting Instructions:

Soil Preparation:

Choose an area with heavy, well-draining soil that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Remove weeds, large rocks, and litter from the planting area. Leave small weeds and dead grass, they will enrich the soil when turned under. Spade or till the soil 8-12 inches deep. Loosening the soil will help the plant establish strong roots.

Plants grow best in soil with lots of organic matter. You may optionally add fertilizer or organic material such as compost, leaves, or rotted hay to mix into the soil at this point. For small gardens, scatter 2-3 tablespoons of a low-nitrogen fertilizer evenly and work into the top 2-3 inches of soil for each hill or 2 foot by 2 foot planting area. For larger gardens, scatter 2-3 pounds of a low-nitrogen fertilizer for each 100 square feet of planting area. Work fertilizer or organic material into the soil and leave the surface smooth.

Form rows of soil beds 4-6 inches high and at least 18 inches apart. This formation of ridges will help with drainage.

Planting:

Plant Lentils in the spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature reaches at least 45F. For fall crops, direct sow seeds outdoors 6-8 weeks before the first frost. To plant, make holes 1 inch deep and spaced 1 inch apart down the rows of raised beds. Plant 1-2 seeds per hole. If choosing to thin to the strongest plant, determine the strongest and healthiest plant, then remove all other plants, narrowing to a single plant per hole. Cover seeds thinly with soil and water after planting.

Planting Depth:	1 inch
Within-Row Spacing:	1 inch
Between-Row Spacing:	12 inches

Care During the Season:

Watering: Water the plants deeply, soaking the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches, once a week. If there is no rainfall, water 2-3 times a week. Water especially during flowering and pod formation. Sandy soils may need to be watered more often than heavy clay soils. Mulching around plants can help retain moisture.

Weeding: Keeping plants weed-free improves production. If plowing or hoeing, do not dig deeper than 1 inch to prevent from cutting the feeder roots.

Fertilizing: As the plants begin to flower and set beans, you may optionally apply fertilizer to help plants produce more peas. Read and follow fertilizer instructions for best application. Water plants after fertilizing.

Insecticides: Insecticides may be used to protect plants. Bt-based insecticides and sulfur are organic options that can be used for prevention. Sulfur also has fungicidal properties and helps in controlling many diseases. Before using a pesticide, read the label and follow cautions, warnings and directions.

Diseases: If spots or mold appear, treat plants with an approved fungicide. Neem oil, sulfur, and other fungicides may be used. When using fungicides always follow label directions.

Harvesting:

Brown Lentils can be harvested when the plants' pods have turned brown and dry, about 80 to 110 days after planting. To check for readiness, gently shake the plant and listen for the sound of dry seeds rattling inside the pods. Harvest the plants by cutting them at the base when most of the pods have dried. After harvesting, allow the plants to continue drying in a well-ventilated area for a few more days. Once completely dry, thresh the pods to release the lentils, and store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to use them. Be sure to harvest before any frost, as it can damage the seeds.